Ecotourism

The Burren Ecotourism Network is a membership organisastion embedded in a sustainable tourism ethos. It was formally establised in 2011. It's purpose is to:

connect tourism enterprises in the Burren Region, and enable them to work together to deliver economic, social and environmental benefits, both for themselves and for their communities

provide members with training, networking, marketing, business development and partnership opportunites

enable members to make an active contribution to the conservation of the regions natural and cultural heritage

The B.E.N. mission is to contribute to transforming the Burren to a truly sustainable destination by being a thought - leader a advocate and by providing learning, development and business opportunities to tourism enterprises.

The Network aims to be a recognizable network of enterprises in the Burren, who have achieved independent accreditation, demonstrate ecotourism ‘best practice’, positively discriminate in each other’s favour, provide ‘one voice’ representation on issues impacting the Burren (where appropriate), and inspire conservation activism.

B.E.N is a network of torism bsiesses with the objective of establihing the Burren as a premier internationally recognised tourisim region ensurin the future economic and social growth and sustainable development of it's communities, environment and heritage. It seeks to support training, mentoring and accreditation in sustainabe tourism for it's members for businesses interested in joining the network.

The BEN Network an the management and organisation of the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark enjoy a special relationship. Both organisations are commited to the promootion of responsible tourism that conserves the environment and improves the the well -being of local people. Having agreed in late 2012 to pool their resources in pursuit othe their common objective, they work together to promote "The Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark" as a leading sustainable visitor destination, celebrated for high standards in visitor experience conservation and learning.

We have completed our training through the Geopark Sustainable Code of Practice, more details about the Geopark can be found on www.burrengeopark.ie and we strongly recomend that you read through this before visiting the region!

Inagh Farmhouse Cheese are also committed members of the Burren Food Trail- a part of the Burren Eco-Tourism network that highlights the artisan Food Producers, Farmers Markets, Bars, Restaurants and Brewers throughout the Burren region.

Farm tours are available at St Tola but they are NOT held everyday and MUST be booked well in advance. See tours page above for more details or contact us on 065 683 6633 or info@st-tola.ie

Sustainable Farming

We believe passionately in sustainable farming. Although it is more expensive and labour intensive than conventional farming, the principles and methods employed promote practises which co-exist with natural systems and help protect and enhance the environment.

IE 1822 EC is our Dept of Agriculture Approval Number.

What does sustainable farming mean?

This refers to foods that are produced using farming methods that do not involve synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, do not contain genetically modified organisms, and are not processed using irradiation or industrial solvents. The farming methods protect our biodiversity by maintaining suitable habitats for plants, animals and wildlife and encourages people to buy their food locally and in season.

The St Tola herd of Saanen, Toggenburg and British Alpine goats are reared on 65 acres of unspoiled pasturelands – considered some of the finest and purest farmland of its type in Europe. Outdoors, they graze on the herb rich pastures feeding on wild flowers such as buttercups, meadow sweet and wild garlic. During the harsh winter, they are housed indoors in comfortable, clean, spacious sheds and are fed on a balanced mix of hay produced on the farm and non gmo grains. All our kids are hand reared after a long weaning period on their mother’s milk. Our strict farming practices, housing and hygiene criteria guarantee we have a happy and healthy herd!